Festival of Trees lights up former restaurant

(Press Staff Photo by C.P. Thompson)Mike and Jan Merchant check out Yada Yada Yarn’s tree on Saturday during the Festival of Trees at the former Curious Kumquat. The Festival features 29 decorated trees available to bid on. Funds support the Guadalupe Montessori School.

The Festival of Trees kicked off on Friday at 111 E. College Ave. in the former Curious Kumquat restaurant. The Festival features 29 diverse trees decorated by various Grant County businesses, groups and individuals.

Guadalupe Montessori School is hosting the Festival of Trees for the fifth straight year. The trees are currently up for sale and anyone is welcome to bid on them. The money raised will support the school’s summer program and other needs.

Some organizations that decorated a tree include Life Quest, the Silver City Police Department, the Food Co-op, Western New Mexico University, The Glasserie, LGBT Grant County, and the Grant County Art Guild.

Life Quest’s tree is a traditional one with ornaments like candy canes, Christmas trees and stars sprinkled with glitter. The Silver City Police Department went all out on blue ornaments and lighting, while a Guadalupe Montessori tree features white small papers that have designs of some of the country’s state flags. WNMU showed its school spirit with purple beads along with the Mustang logo, and Yada Yada Yarn’s tree has miniature sweaters and mittens.

“These trees are fantastic,” said Kerri Webb, who stopped by the former Curious Kumquat on Saturday. “I love the homemade ornaments and each of the themes. There is a great representation of all the businesses.”

On Saturday, before folks headed into the building to see the trees, the Circle of the Sun choir sang some carols outside. Maria Casler, director of the choir, led the group of 25 while others sat on the bench, some clapping and others singing along. Among the songs they sang were “Rise Up, O Flame,” and “Shenandoah.”

“These songs lift up the soul,” Casler said. “They are simple harmonies and easy to learn.”

Folks can also purchase seasonal plants, herbs and holiday baked goods such as muffins, cupcakes, brownies, Rice Krispies treats and more. Parents of children who attend Guadalupe Montessori made the goods. Also, local artisans made holiday gifts like ornaments, cards and ceramics that are also available for purchase.

“It is inspiring to see people come together and support the school,” said Martha Egnal, head of the Guadalupe Montessori School.

The trees will be on display Thursday, Dec. 14, from 5 to 9 p.m., which will coincide with the Silver City Museum’s Victorian Christmas, when there will be free rides between the two events on the Holiday Inn Express’ vintage firetruck and Raul Turrieta’s electric golf cart. Free hot cider and popcorn will also be offered to the public at the Festival of Trees on the night of the Victorian Christmas. The festival continues Friday, Dec. 15, from noon to 8 p.m., 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 17. The former Curious Kumquat is located at 111 E. College Ave., next to Gila Hike and Bike.